Jehovah's Witnesses and the Black Man

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

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[@christianaashong8963]

Thanks so much

[@Lukronius]

Awesome job, as always! By the way, does Daniel have a YT channel? I love brother Toasted Almond!! 😂

[@nomoresecrets3065]

ExJW Critical Thinker you are better without a co-host. This is so true. Some brothers flip fries and sell shoes then come to the hall with their chest poked out and ego higher than the clouds. Smh. Modern day spiritual and emotional slavery. Fyi: I love fries and shoes.

[@coolhandlou2101]

Lmao.... Set the record straight not all African American work handy man jobs... glad that was mentioned...

[@GlennDavey]

Am I to understand that you took for gospel white guy Charles Taze Russell's 1930's ideas on the black man? The rest of your video is misguided based on this premise. Black people aren't more "teachable". Throw that out with all the other faulty doctrine. Black people are just like white people, all kinds of abilities and proclivities. Perhaps take your head out of the JW sphere and learn some more about racism in America and then see if you'd make a video like this.

[@marilynj9194]

I’m a white 70 year old grandmother. And I love you guys. You speak so much “truth”. Keep telling the truth about your experience. I escaped 30+ years ago. The organization tried to keep me submissive to an abuse, psychotic drug abusing husband. Abuse in the organization takes on many forms.”

[@blowpopchoir]

Bless you Brothers. I did 19 years, I feel you. I reg. Pioneered, did not seek higher education. Because “ the end is near”. Now at 53, I cannot get a friggin’ job that will pay a living wage. No new system, no Paradise, no help, NO NOTHING. THANKS WATCHTOWER!!!!!!!

[@WJTM88]

Paul So many folks black white and red got sold a bill of goods by the religion How are things going with covid? So many folks impacted one way or another Jt

[@Uadkin1214]

Please look into going back to school for job training you might start with registering with your vocational rehab program whereas they will assist you in various ways. Each State has their own programs so they differ but start with your own. Remember to LIVE Now as long as you are ALIVE. They have sucked the Joy from us for too Long! ✨

[@TheJaHa5]

'When emotion is up, logic is down.' This statement can be applied in so many aspects of life, especially where relationships are concerned. Very powerful statement!

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

James Hamilton excellent point

[@vusimngomezulu2500]

​@@ExJWCriticalThinkerWhich church are preaching the gospel of the kingdom around the world to all nations as Jesus Christ said? Matthew 10:16, 24:14,28:19-20, Mark 13:10, if not only only only the Jehovah's witnesses..

[@AV-th7uy]

There is a "power trip" that comes with holding a position IN the congregation - be it the brothers becoming an MS or and Elder, and the sisters becoming Pioneers. These same people would be making minimum wage or less, uneducated, have menial jobs, yet be held up as EXAMPLES of what to be in the cong. Now throw in the black aspect - and you now have a man who may not be respected in the workplace, he may face racism and NOT garner a lot of respect in the streets, but the minute he walks in the Khall - he becomes special (in his own mind). He gains instant respect (to a degree) over his title, people look up to him, he may be searched out for his advice and opinion - where outside the Khall not one person pays him an ounce of mind! And that type of feeling can be magnetic. The pull of POWER can be intoxicating. But the respect is superficial...and black men find themselves drunk on that feeling of power, so leaving the org becomes a struggle between their head and their ego. But in my opinion, love and power is the draw for a lot of people no matter their skin color. In the "world" they are nobody, but in the JW world they can become SOMEBODY (relatively speaking). It is sad...🙁

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

A V you are on point as always

[@ladama3201]

Agree and I believe too many men are attracted to this religion because of the subjugation of women (4th generation ex Witness here). I remember as a teen when I was studying with a sister and she told me “my husband (black folks) asked me to call him lord... she just laughed it off like a hen while I was utterly disgusted.

[@EvelynnLandrum]

I totally agree with this comment. The pull of power can put you on a cloud.

[@OldLCAndersonHigh]

GREAT message. As a JW in Austin, TX during the early to mid-1960s, I specifically remember an all-white Kingdom Hall that would deny African-American JWs membership into their congregation. Would love to see a video from you guys on how the Watchtower Society (Russell and Rutherford) viewed African-Americans during its founding and throughout most of the 20th century. Keep up the good work.

[@beansamillion3961]

Bruce Blackwell yes! I heard this over the years. I was told at one point that black JWs weren't even allowed to go door-to-door.

[@soulavenue8]

Im from Chicago, and back when I used to go to the conventions/assemblies I remember the deep segregation within them, and how all the Black friends would stay amongst themselves, the Whites themselves, Latinos themselves, and so on so forth. I noticed it from childhood. Everyone would give these smug or fake smiles and greetings (especially the white "friends"), and I never understood why anyone would want to be apart of anything that was supposed tobe godly, where thr members acted like that. I also remember everytime we had a White circut overseer come to our congregation, the friend would act like Jesus was coming out to personally hand them gold medals. I mean cooking all the finest soul food ever, being broke while saving their coins to take him to thr finest restaurants there were, etc. However, when a Black brother would come the enthusiasm was definitely not as present, and the effort was lacking. That says a lot. Smh.

[@americanbeauty171]

Wow how sad!!!

[@denisesunset]

I remember when my parents attended a predominantly white congregation. My father was in field service, and the white brother told my father that they'll sit in the car, and wait for the other friends to finish the territory. My parents endured a lot of prejudice during the late 50s and 60s. This is something many in the organization rarely want to discuss.

[@patriciawarmack5530]

That question about why were there no Blacks, Hispanics etc. on the GB use to linger in the back of my mind. It was a relief to hear JT affirm that I wasn't the only one thinking this.

[@MsTaurine]

Patricia Warmack I never noticed that until a year ago, that religion is sneaky. I left almost 20 years ago...

[@lindelwanothandongcobo8863]

Me to from when I was a kid I'm African and I felt really sad there's no black person not even a person of African decent in the important history of the organization or gb I felt like God hates black people but soon I realized it's a cult ☺️

[@MlninPricl]

The MOST HIGH doesn't hate so called Black people. There is just a large segment of so called Black people who had their identity as Isrealites torn away from them by the children of Edom. They are suffering the curses of Deuteronomy, I thought it was a bunch of ridiculous lies until I did 7 years of research after which I was forced to admit that it was true. Watch "reformed apologetics destoyed pt1 and 2" for just a small sample of the evidence prooving this.

[@BigMikePlays]

Isn't there a token black governing body member. This religion was made in America by a 7th day Adventist apostate 😏

[@godvsevolutionmythgodvsevo1038]

I asked that in 1975 and got my ass whipped

[@EvelynnLandrum]

As a white person, I've seen a fair share of disrespect towards the black brothers in the organization, and it was so humiliating how segregated things were in the 80s. At conventions, the African American brothers were always given the cleaning and parking assignment jobs etc. White circuit overseers would make them the butt of jokes during their talks etc. But this thought has always puzzled me: They say that "1914" was the year that marked Satan's influence on the earth. Everything turned "bad" etc. To me, this is no regard for the lives African Americans lived way prior to 1914 when they were brought to the Americas as slaves, killed, beaten, raped and dehumanized etc. That goes to show that the 1914 teaching is flawed to the core!

[@sirwilliamclickclack7492]

Excellent points, thank you for sharing.

[@BA-gd1ub]

@@sirwilliamclickclack7492unfortunately it still goes on

[@dcfarmer-in-waiting4587]

This was so good. This could have been a full hour segment.

[@Blackraregem]

DC Farmer-in-Waiting facts

[@WJTM88]

Glad you enjoyed it sorry for getting back so late JT and Lady Cee

[@meritofapproval]

A fascinating discussion of an often unspoken topic. 👍

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Dimitri Merritt it's so painful to talk about fir so many

[@exjwfifth9838]

Man this is so true

[@southernbawselady7092]

ExJW Fifth - Hey!.. I miss you and your videos!!.. Hope all is going well with you!! ❤

[@WJTM88]

Hey man how are you doing? JT and Lady Cee

[@sisterpfister7463]

Excellent video! I'm from NC too, JT. :-) Sadly, my family didn't save for their retirements, either and now I am taking care of my mother financially. I watched my grandparents suffer in poverty with very little help from the congregation when they got old and infirm. You can bet that I am saving for my old age!!! Getting free from the org and making a living in the real world was very hard for me at first. It sucks to think that it is harder for black XJWs. I have no doubt that it's true though. You are doing very important work talking about these issues.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Brigette Pfister we are care givers as well for my inlaws caring for older parents is challenging but it's good you are able to help

[@janiaburns7662]

On the September 2017 JW. Org featured an elderly pioneer sister, who was white, who, over forty years ago, had advised a young black brother to not fulfill his long- desired dream of becoming a doctor. The new system would not need doctors, but would need servants of Jehovah. the brother listened to her and did not go to college or become a doctor. Instead, the brother is now at Bethel and said he was thankful for her wise advice. Instantly, I thought how backward, misguided, and delusional this reasoning was. An oppressed white woman in an abusive religion, dissuading a young black man from furthering his education and becoming a doctor. A black person's history and experiences in this country is so far different from other races, particularly whites, whose institutionalized and often everyday racism has deprived us of our rights and numerous opportunities. As a doctor and a JW, he could have been more helpful to others, including JWs, who would have needed a medical advocate, even at Bethel. This brother said he was thankful for her advice. But I wondered was he really and was it that easy to give up on a life-long dream?

[@donnazukadley7300]

how sad

[@thewrongshoes]

Jania B that video was sad.

[@janiaburns7662]

Sad but sorry to say, so true.

[@janiaburns7662]

In what other world, other than the JW, would it be acceptable, given praise, and even boasting for someone, particularity someone black, to be told NOT to pursue their dream of being doctor, instead be an unpaid volunteer for the WBTS. Advice given after high school graduation and the End was soon, now its forty years later, and a middle-age man or senior.

[@alomaalber6514]

they told this white chick the same thing, I hear ya.

[@mattieduffy8163]

So true. I'm Irish and all my 40+ years I used to be in the society I was subjected to cruel 'jokes' about the 'low intellect' of the Irish(known for millennials as the 'land of Saints and Scholars, but beaten down for hundreds of years). Even had a circuit overseer from the platform give a talk about ' a very thick pilot; let's just say he's Irish'. I approached him afterwards and told him that had my mother been visiting she would have gone on the platform and spat in his face. They preach that God is not partial but they're very bigoted.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Mattie Duffy WOW!!!!! Now this is a powerful post Thanks for sharing

[@blitzblutz]

I always wondered what the attraction was for the black community to join the JWs. This video was great to let me see their side of the story.

[@MLH5882]

When I was a Kid I was not A JW and never even heard of them until I was like 17 years old but I remember I use to see these Older Black people in the downtown area doing street work selling Watchtowers. They were always Black people and across the street was a Nation of Islam building and they would be selling the Magazine "Muhammed Speaks" if anyone remembers the honorable Elija Muhammed. So I would see these 2 BLACK ONLY groups and they both scared me. The Black Muslim would be yelling anti white things on the street and the JW's across the street would be just standing there holding magazines up. I was like 10-14 years old and I could not figure out who or what these guys were and I thought they were the same religion and the only JW's I ever met were Black up until I was like 17 years old. Interesting experience for me then when I became a JW around 20 years old my first assembly was like 50/50 mixed race. Jw's did teach me that people can get along and we have more in common that we do apart. It is however an oppressive religion that reels you in little by little and what you learn in the beginning about this big happy "spiritual paradise" is not reality.

[@naturesfistlor9457]

I think it has something to do with slavery & colonisation blacks start to flock toward Christianity

[@christinagraham2915]

Honestly same but cults always attach themselves to the vulnerable of us

[@peggystoutemorin4529]

@@naturesfistlor9457 If it's religion we will flock to it. We have to be the most religious people on the planet. Look what it's done for us. I ditched this nonsense a while back. No regrets.

[@JonathanLittle001]

Black church and white church have been a thing for sooooo long in this country, JWs were one of the first to integrate. It has an appeal...

[@thewarriorscodex8758]

Very good video. Love it when a emotion is up logic is down. You can apply that in any facet of life.

[@WJTM88]

So true indeed Lady Cee and JT

[@JayTheComedian]

Wow!!! Very powerful stuff. Thanks y’all!!!

[@WJTM88]

Funny Jay how much has not changed either lol JT and Lady Cee

[@jbone2345]

Chocolate Thunder and Toasted Almond! 😂😂😂😂😂

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

jbone2345 you you don't laugh you would cry Lol

[@informationyes]

Porn star names

[@richardtaylor6341]

Lol. Ya know I'm a skeptic if I'm here...and toasted has a healthy ring to it....

[@brendawilliams2374]

@@ExJWCriticalThinker x c ca,, ? TV I'm moo Monicauh

[@naturesfistlor9457]

🤣🤣

[@capricorndragon1577]

100% truth, coming from a father who was an elder, he worked on an assembly line during the day, then having everyone's respect at the meeting on Tuesday night, he enjoyed the feeling of authority that he got. He overlooked so much, because of liking that feeling. And I know that's why he still remains in that organization.

[@jeffreyl5151]

Very interesting, because I felt the same way about my dad and many other elders but I think it's not only black men but white men as well and it really have to do with their occupation I believe, my dad was a blue collar worker as well and yes when they arrived at the hall that's when the power tripping started.

[@johnstewart3244]

In the UK comedy the greengrocer (a man of humble status) is seen as enjoying the responsibility of ordering people around doing a wartime position of responsibility in Civil defence as an air raid warden!

[@gypsynai9227]

Capricorn Dragon my father too..he was an elder in Yonkers,NY..then we moved to Baltimore.where he cudnt be an elder because they said he wasn't familiar with the congregation..well he ended up having an anurism or stroke..anyway he cudnt be a ministerial servant either because of his memory..so they gave him reading part like they wud a publisher...and he struggled..he loved the fellowship,always especially with the black brothers....i always felt awkward by the witnesses in almost every hall I been all act the same..and I still find it a bit creepy and strange..im still confused about Jehovah's witnesses and lately the name Jehovah..i wish I could find a former jw and maybe talk because I feel growing up as one has affected me up to now..30yr old man.. Idk..its harder now since my father died a fee months ago...my mom said the last thing he said was :noblood.... And I wonder..was the true god or one of his messengers with him as he was dying....and even though I know his body has used up it's self and returned to what he was made of physically...i still feel like he's not gone..all the way..he with the Creator and I know the Creator will use him for something great because I found no fault in my father EVER..I LOVE YOU PAPI.

[@macadam8984]

I am saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved father. Be comforted that from what you say, your father was a faithful servant of God. He will ever be in the memory of the Grand Creator of the Universe, and to be in the memory of God means he will someday live again in the paradise of the only true God, Jehovah, the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ. My area of interest is promoting the Holy Word of God and combating misinformation. You say you are confused about the name Jehovah. If you are willing to allow me, I would like to discuss God's Holy Name with you. If you approve, you can reach me at [e-mail]. And he [Jesus] said to him: “Truly I tell you today, you will be with me in Paradise.” "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life..." (John 5:28-29a; Luke 23:43)

[@adamgomez2043]

John Stewart so cool, your dad made it to paradise for sure

[@oscarc5391]

Another great video that addresses the different reality of being a person of color in the watchtower organization as a Puerto Rican who was a part of that organization one of the first things that woke me up to the organization was the total lack of diversity in the governing body and the upper echelon of the organization

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

oscar C53 you noticed it too. Lol

[@lovinliverpool]

Exactly! Only Samuel Herd, what a lovely man. They're all lovely men *vomit* But seriously, when you're in the organisation you kind of turn a blind eyes towards racism and sexism.

[@freedom7146]

Thanks for speaking the truth, as I have been in both Black and White congregations. So glad my husband and I got pushed out..Lol! We are an interracial couple. My husband is white and caught on not too long after we were married. I thank God I married him!

[@brownskingirl1131]

The bible forbind mix mariage

[@Miss_NatashaO]

@@brownskingirl1131 definitely not true. I had to go look it up, but in Exodus 12, Aaron and Miriam was struck with leprosy due to the marriage of Moses and Zipporah, a black woman of the region. As long as you are a believer of the faith, skin color doesn't matter.

[@WJTM88]

glad you guys are happy and realized this is not the truth JT and Lady Cee

[@Conmezzo]

What I find ironic is that the early Bible Students were white, middle and upper middle class who were financially well off. They had wills and trusts to bequeath to the Society.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Jean Wakefield excellent point

[@janicehussock7735]

My mom stressed this part to me. I asked her why we were all so poor. Her family began with Russell. Look, it is admirable they reached out to people of color. Only a few groups did so. But no major black or Puerto Rican leader ever. Every Bethel speaker was white. Only at assemblies did I see black leadership in action. Complex, but we can see and count.

[@diannadanyahdandridge8569]

I just found your channel. I am not a JW, but have a family member that is one. I'm just interested in other peoples experiences.. This is one of the best I've seen. Very professional. Thank you for helping your former lost family and friends come out of that mind set.

[@WJTM88]

Sorry it took so long to get back to you- Glad you enjoyed it , and yes in "private" many jw carry on conversations that they are NOT SUPPOSED TO lol JT AND LADY CEE

[@kesy4072]

I'm glad you are not a jw, I'm a jw and planning to leave this shit😢 soon

[@ThePpppt]

I love listening to you talk. Cheers

[@WJTM88]

Glad you enjoyed it sorry for getting back so late Lady Cee and JT

[@elissapalmer3149]

Awesome video!!! Glad you guys explained this topic.

[@debsad7500]

I love these videos. I began researching JW’s because the Lord is purposeful in sending them my way...for which I’m thankful. But now that I’ve seen this they are always my black brothers and sisters. I enjoy engaging with them. My experience has been that they will hear the real Gospel, but they’re closed down. I want them to come back. One sweet lady has been back SIX times. I’m asking God to keep me from being put on a list of some sort. I want them to come here. Thank you again. These are incredibly helpful and so gracious. What a powerful testimony y’all have in that grace.

[@beansamillion3961]

This is great, I would love for your wife to do a video on Black women experience in the organization. Black women are least likely to marry more than any other racial group of women in the country due to the shortage of quality eligible men. In the JW Organization it's even worse. And from my own observation the JW seem to attract alot of black women who have come dysfunctional upbringings and many suffer from mental illness, unfortunately.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Beansamillion point well taken. See Lady Cee videos on The Struggle of JW Women

[@acajudi100]

Beansamillion No shortage for me..😊

[@welljm8938]

I am very grateful to hear the real truth from real people who have experienced very real situations. This was my experience. I have no anger, no axes to grind with the organization or with the good people that I left behind. In 1975 I dropped out of school,I was living with a good friend and that was my first bible study with JW. Back then after u studied for a certain amount of time even if you weren’t a baptized wittiness I showed a strong interest in going door to door. So they allowed me to sit in on Bible studies go door to door, but for reasons I can’t tell you I Never Had A Desire To Get Baptize. Never! Fast forward in 76&79 I had Two girls and I was not married. I stopped studying for awhile life happened and eventually I picked up my studies again.I enjoyed going to the Kingdom Hall ,Theocratic School everything! So everything is so good why am I here U ask? My daughter turned 15 and told me she was gay. She is now 42 and Ian 63.(2019) I was not going to let anyone anywhere,anytime turn me against my babies that came from my belly. PERIOD. End of story. My daughter married a beautiful I mean beautiful girl in 2010. I was the only one from our family that was invited to the beautiful wedding 👰🏻 I never, ever regretted my decision to leave the organization. Peace be with them and Peace is with me. Sorry I wrote such a long story but I needed to get my story out. Robin from Harlem 💋

[@reneehoney7355]

When you are born in 3rd generation half your family in. You couldnt tell me nothing i went to an affluent hall a lot of friends had money education. They pusjed each other did business together. You couldnt telk me a thing. When i switched to a less affluent cong. I had to change my gaudy showy clothes and it was downhill. Jt you and Daniel are great together.

[@felixbeliummbembela93]

Been sleeping around but can't find eligible men. Mhhhh

[@dr.richmann4477]

This a very powerful video. You guys look great as you are dressed like professionals.

[@queue555]

He is dressedlike a jw

[@americanbeauty171]

@@queue555 30 years plus they we in it....

[@juanp6703]

I was an elder in the Spanish Hall and a servant in sign language here in NC. I saw this so much. And as someone else commented it’s very evident in the Spanish hall, brothers who worked low paying jobs but then at the Hall were almost worshipped by the friends. In sign language, many of the deaf would join the organization action because by day they could work jobs that many of the deaf worked (here it was grocery baggers or maintenance) and then at night give talks and have ‘respect’ from the friends. Watchtowers tactic and product is a do it all, it will give you the appearance that whatever you want or need, the society can give it to you.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Juan Paz when I was at bethel a lot of the guys on the spanish side often talked about that same issue These were OFF THE RECORD conversations Lol

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

jp so sad but so true

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Juan Paz wow. This is what I have been told so many times

[@kateamara9874]

Yes, the joke was always what janitor has 5 suits? The JW brother, and it is too true. I think that is why they prey on low level wage owners.

[@betog391]

ExJW Critical Thinker i hope you dont me asking do you believe in a Trinitarian god?

[@LivingNow]

Very good points my friends :) It's funny that most of my JW life happened in NC and I remember how easier it was to preach to black and Spanish folks.

[@southernbawselady7092]

LivingNow - Hey to my NC sister!! 🙋

[@LivingNow]

Duh!!! Was what I said not clear? What does Sapnish folks mean to you? If I say Spanish folks it means Hispanic of course, what elese???

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

LivingNow down near Rocky Mount NC IS HOME

[@southernbawselady7092]

Outstanding video!.. It was time to face "the elephant in the room"!.. I agree 100% with everything you all stated. Case in point my father is an Elder and has been one for almost 50 years. He is just a laid-back man and will go along just to get along. There is NEVER anything wrong with the Org, new light and all, they takes it as if it's ALL coming from Jehovah!! I help with their finances because my parents never saved for retirement, because as you know the saying "Armageddon is just right around the corner"!!.. I'm still conflicted with trying to decide should I give up helping them financially in order for them to see they've been taken for a ride or just leave it as is since they have invested so much time, energy and resources in the Org (aka Book Publishing and Real Estate Company) I have a lot to figure out but your video was spot-on! This is my home 🏡 away from home 🏡!!.. keep up the great videos they are very much needed! 💯

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Southern Bawse Lady so you have seen it as well. Lol

[@vikkip4256]

I am so glad that I found your channel. I read "Crisis of Conscience" several years ago. I was brought up as JW prior to 1975. My father was a Presiding Overseer so I had a similar experience that you and your wife had. I am thankful that I left in 1980 and never looked back. I still have a few friends that are still Witnesses but we can't talk about doctrines.

[@jedislayer9751]

My mom twenty four years ago told me not to join my company's 401 K because the new system would be here. I didn't listen. But rather I listened to a white supervisor and set away Money and joined. Years later and hundreds of thousands of dollars later I thank that same coworker for giving me the very first advice I took from an outsider. It still took me 11 years to leave but man, was I glad I didn't listen to my mother as she was so sincere but not accurate.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Jedi slayer bingo. As ole Daniel my man says. Never confuse sincerity for accuracy

[@moniquereese1031]

@@ExJWCriticalThinker I would Ike to know if you and are born again believers in Christ. I never see video about the truth. Which is in the Bible. I love what you and wife are doing. I have several family members that JW's my brother was an elder and I often think about his eternal salvation. He was very sincere but he was sincerely wrong.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Monique Reese there are over 30,000 denominations -- ALL. Declaring we are the truth don't agree with us. And GOD WILL kill you or punish you. I think people confuse spirituality and religion . At this point in our lives organized religion is not something for us perhaps for others though We spent 30+ years arguing with folks over whether Jesus died on a telephone or a light pole - been there done that and bought a few tees shirts

[@sharonburnett7467]

Of course that's true because someone can be sincerely wrong

[@andydrew03]

4th gen Black JW. I can relate to several of your points. A lot of financial and educational losses. True the respect was nice and keeps a lot of us in. I was an MS and RP, served in foreign language, was interviewed at an assembly, etc. Family keeps us locked in too of course. I'm an atheist now.

[@UJB123]

Shame because truthfully no one "respects'' most elders; too many are abusive at the local level, company men. Shepherds not caring about the sheep; hired men concerned with themselves and some company, an abstract. Who's looking out for the sheep? The humans? So question everything and everyone.

[@lovinliverpool]

You guys have one of the best ex-JW channels here on KZbin. You guys really opened my eyes on a lot off subjects and helped me with the process of waking up. Thank you.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

lovinliverpool thanks for the kind words

[@MrGCBREEZY]

JT, I always appreciate your level headed perspective and reasoning. In your video I heard you say you're from DC so am I, I used to attend Brooklyn congregation. You speak just like a true Washingtonian very real

[@donnazukadley7300]

JT is from North Carolina

[@WJTM88]

@@donnazukadley7300 true been here for a minute now- came here after Bethel JT and Lady Cee

[@thatcutecapricorn]

What a great video... often they say, "that brother is so nice". They use so nice to measure worth. My family experienced so much racism but excused it because it was supposedly "the truth".

[@ex_jw_cory6966]

This channel is the real truth ! Not Jehovah's Witnesses Organization. Thanks to this man ....I gain the courage to leave which saved my life. Thank you brother !

[@WJTM88]

Glad you enjoyed it sorry for getting back so late JT and Lady Cee

[@Simone69214]

I couldn’t click fast enough. Excellent concept of JT and Daniel coming together 👏🏽. This topic is on point. Happy New Year guys.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Simone Katherine just keeping it real

[@shirleyprestidge4649]

Shirley your leader is Jesus shouldn't it be good to follow him didn't he leave a wonderful example to follow in his footsteps is a privilege and an honour he is my leader even though I am a Jehovah's witness and that's heard of the black man very no correlation to never even noticed CBR Dan colour but you can't say Jehovah's Witnesses a racist they're not anybody is welcome but you my friend should have gone to them book of acts and sore as a bohemian red the scriptures to make sure that what Paul was telling him was right I was not going to the one I came in the truth although very young I belong to Church of England I said and I questioned everything they took my mum then I agree to have a study and I argued and argued and argue with them but at the end of the day I saw there was right the scriptures was right the way they took was right lick and argue with it so to everyone thinking of entering a new religion I would say check everything they say don't take it till you've seen it for yourself that way you know that what you are studying is right if it matches up to the scriptures

[@thestricklandchroniclesfam4131]

Your so right..... I've seen it. No challenge. No questioning.... it really makes us as women loose respect. And that respect is hard to get back.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

There is 1 God & 1 judge you are on point But it's the culture of JW world

[@Frank-uz7qm]

Yall have been knocking it out the park with these videos. Keep up the good work!

[@WJTM88]

WE try JT and Lady Cee

[@dawnelizabeth1828]

Thanks and you're welcome! It's the least I could do for some friends that assisted me in my departure, really!

[@rsantiagoart2284]

I am a Hispanic male raised in the JW religion. As I got older I realized I made a lot of bad decisions based on council from the brothers. The only way I could break free was to read The New World Translation over and over again. I had to find out for myself what this book had to say to me. And I did. I am happy now, I am free to make my own decisions, and I have read The New World Translation from beginning to end 4 times. I like your videos. Thank you.

[@janicehussock7735]

Education and professional development are so important. Witnesses do not want us to learn facts. The "truth' is rarely truth. Why would any church deny its members' educational opportunities? Sadly, my overwhelmingly black congregation embraced the mocking of religion. Also, my mom was criticized for working. Witnesses are often encouraged to take part-time jobs so they can do service work and make all the meetings. If public schools in predominantly black and Latino communites offered better education, fewer blacks would jin the Witnesses. Sadly, being a Witness is far, far more acceptable in the African-American community than the broader white one. I was always embarrassed to be a Witness. Many blacks view it as an honor. It bothers me when white affluent friends laugh at Witnesses. My heart breaks. We are affected by racism in this country. It is not all right to be uneducated and unsophisticated. How does anyone explain that, though?

[@janicehussock7735]

Sorry. I meant mocking higher education or even learning advanced skills. College is not the end all. There are many skilled trades: carpentry, theatre work, construction, etc.that pay well. We are constantly told how evil the outside world is. I am so glad that the public schools exposed me to normal people so I could experience the falsehood in my gut. My parents allowed me to have worldly friends. I had no Witness friends which was probably reverse discrimination. There is a steady drill about how worldly people are bad. They are immoral. Yet there was immorality in my Kingdom Hall. Public officials and others contributing to our community are also ridiculed. The teaching that the AngloAmerican alliance was as evil in Jehovah's eyes as the Nazis also bothered me. We would all go up in smoke in concentration camps. It upset me that my father received a draft exemption whilhe he served at Bethel, Classmates' family members fought for our freedom. It is cult-like. I respect our First Amendment tradition here in America. It is better than banning or excessively monitoring groups. We can constrain the Watchtower, however, by educating people about our experience and what the witnesses actually teach. Most people have no idea. There must be some academic studies why so many blacks are drawn to the Witnesses. I can assure you that the white leadership said racist things in my presence. The predominantly black female population in the KIngdom Halls always intrigued me. Why would any woman join a group where women are regarded as filthy, second-class members? The sisters in my Kingdom Hall were so much more cultured and educated than the men. They were forbidden to serve. The competition for marriage is keen bc so few black brothers are active. It is a strange experience. Yet if you are isolated by the Witnesses, you may never appreciate how strange it is. The abnormal is made to seem normal and good.

[@WJTM88]

Sorry for getting back so late but your post is powerful JT and Lady Cee

[@pinkfuschia8140]

I think that in addition to what you say, women or mothers generally tend to be the ones that first get their families interested into the faith. Hence black women are even more vulnerable. I noticed that in our congregation there were mainly women or single mothers. All the men were elders or ministerial servants apart from those being shunned. There was only one black family who got involved through the mother and they were lovely to me. The daughters were saving themselves to the 'new system' to get married and they were pioneering hard. Still are, after 20 years. Their brother was the only black man in the congregation and where we are, growing up there weren't many black children at school with me. Racism certainly was noticeable at school among the boys especially. So I'd say that this young man would've felt it growing up. So I question whether he could've been 'teachable' out of wanting to have a sense of belonging. He got made an elder just as they gave me 'a shepherding call'. I remember him crying at my doorstep when I told them what had happened regarding my story. When I left I was an unbaptized publisher. I think he may have questioned what I had to say as I pointed out the message about women in a book my JW husband had used on me. The same book is also very racist. I'm referring to 'Making Your Family Life Happy' (1978). Page 49 shows a black couple with a very sexual subliminal image on the woman. She's even wearing a top that we girls would've been counselled for wearing as its really tight. The caption is even suggestive 'Little Things Mean A Lot'. But worse is the page further on in the book, with a picture of the white family at the zoo. The boy's collar is a KKK man. I had not noticed that picture before. If my JW husband had seen that one, he definitely would've left the meetings. When he was alive he lost his job because he was a white guy standing up against older white men being racist to a black colleague. The black man had apparently just put up with it for ages until my husband lost his temper. What's it like to be a black woman JW in a congregation where you are in the minority? I'd say that book treated women with disrespect totally, and black women worse. But the KKK man on the white boy's collar is terrifying. It's a green book in the book section on avoidjw.org if you don't have your own copy.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Pink Fuschia please don't get Lady CEE started. You all will be the best of friends telling war stories Yep getting women in has a long history. It fact in mint churches this is noticeable as well Lots of single and married women with no or husband They turn to elders or pastors I knew sisters who later on would admit that sometime they just wanted to hear a male voice So they would call up the elders with a BIBLE Question The wt dating pool is shallow to say the least

[@janicehussock7735]

I was raised in a multigenerational white family in Newark, NJ. Most people in the NY area believe that the Witnesses are a black religion. I often wondered why blacks were attracted to a group with white leadership and that practiced segregation in the South. If the US had more equality of opportunity in education, i do not believe African-Americans would be so eager to join the Witnesses. People often mention that Witnesses are well-behaved. To me, this ignores billions of people throughout the world who are not Witnesses who also are well-behaved. Witnesses attract low-income and poorly educated people. If public schools taught critical thinking skills and world religious history as an academic subject, Witnesses would recruit far fewer people. I was a poor, white ethnic who wondered why the African-Americans in the Kingdom Hall did not join historically black churches that were active in the civil rights movement. Such churches encouraged literacy, education, offered social opportunities, sucha soup kitchens, dances, youth groups, and political advocacy within a Christian context.

[@janiaburns7662]

I was a kid during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. I remember adult black Witnesses being highly critical of the Movement and of black spokespeople, including Martin Luther King and especially Malcolm X. They would say that the protesters should wait on Jehovah and looked for him as their leader instead of men. But its a good thing, their thinking didn't have any affect. Those black witnesses and other people of color and women ended up benefiting from The Struggle and rebellion.

[@janicehussock7735]

Jania, It annoyed me that Witnesses accept public benefits without contributing to the effort. They will rely on the police, but forbid people to become police officers. Witnesses certainly benefited from the defeat of Hitler but refused to serve.

[@janiaburns7662]

Agreed. The Organization has no children, social programs, charities, or even transportation for their elderly or disabled members. More often than not, many long-time black witnesses when they are alone disabled elderly or poor or all of the above fall through the Watchtower cracks and have to depend on "worldly" relatives or government assistance with little or no support from JW or the organization

[@darlenepatrick4619]

Janice Hussock you are so right. I used to get criticised for working after my children started school and yet they were waiting on that check and food stamps while they auxillary pioneered. Or criticising the military and country while they exercised their freedom of speech, going door to door. What hipocracy. And I'm a black woman.

[@MLH5882]

Jania B. So true. I saw it so many times. I personally helped many as I could but I was only 1 person. I always thought Why doesn't the WT do more for those in need? The T always liked to brag about how they are the first responders in a flood or earthquake etc and how they help non JW's also but the reality is it is so RAE that they hardly ever do it and it isn't the one time help that people need it is the continual help and education that they should have and I dont mean getting a free handout from the WT but direction and help as needed. The bible says the true religion should look after widows and orphans right? They never do that but direct them to get government aid instead? Isn't the government run by SATAN according to the WT ? I saw so many when they got elderly and were very poor bc of teachings they followed but the WT would never give aid in any way but happy to take your donations and request monthly "PLEDGES" from our Poor Brothers who have little education or money. I still see JW's a round town who I know are on welfare or gov aid doing metro work or street work and sitting in chairs with the magazines and books but could be working and holding a job when they are physically capable of doing it. To me, it does not seem right for someone to be "preaching" and not working but getting government aid on housing, food, medical etc A lot has to do with the situation they put themselves in by not getting educated or trained for a job bc the END was coming so soon why do that? So now in a more demanding tech society and labor jobs not paying much anymore they are in a rut bc they have little or no skills and not much to offer an employer and they may be older now and to late to go back abd start over. D Sad to see it and I know many folks I drive by and see them on the corners waiting for the end of the system to come and meanwhile time has flown by.

[@sespaillat]

The biggest impact on being a JW is the slave mentality. The watchtower doctrines effect all JWS but especially black people because we are already in poverty and since they don't encourage education and don't encourage you to better yourself you end in a worse condition. Because of limited education most black people that are witnesses have to work minimum wage jobs and a lot of those jobs are in warehouse which they don't care about your meetings. I quit a few jobs and was broke for a few months because it effected my meetings. Looking back the watchtower wants you poor in every way from education to spirituality so you can be dependent on the organization

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Stan Da Man you need to stop !!!!!!! You can't be Dropping that type of knowledge on folks Lol Great post We thank you for adding your voice and life experience

[@bobfish7514]

Also in discouraging voting. It’s a shame.

[@normb2782]

Stan Da Man that's so sad

[@exioz99]

Stan Da Man well you are wrong that was ur choice,

[@freddobbs9741]

What a lot of black JW's did was get government jobs and factory jobs that paid decent. The factory jobs are gone and competition for government jobs are competitive. Many of the younger brothers work in menial jobs or drive UBER today.

[@waynewatanabe2207]

Although i was never a witness, i dated a non baptised publisher. At first her father never spoke to me until he saw me at the kingdom hall for book study. After that he overwhelmed me with kindness, took me out for margaritas, and while we drank he laid it on me... "you can't date my daughter unless you're at least studying. " From then i was reeled in pretty much. I even changed my pin numbers to 1914. On my lunch breaks I'd read awake and watchtower in my car.. For a minute i drank the kool aid. I was and have always been into history so one day i went online googling jw and CTR. I immediately wanted my girlfriend out of this cult once i read about magic wheat and CTR possibly being a Freemason. After that I've been on a nonstop search for info even though I'm no longer with her. I grew to care very much for all her family and i hope their finding their way out. My ex girls father was very zealous, smart and hardworking so i couldn't imagine how he could overlook so many reasons not to be a JW. I was amazed at how many black folks were at the hall whenever I'd go. Not to mention, we'd be the only black people in the little room. I can remember sitting there too.. Glad i woke up, sorry i had to leave her behind.

[@WJTM88]

You made the right decision- sorry for getting back so late JT and Lady Cee

[@TatiannaMonaeOfficial]

Love this video. Great job. Thank you.

[@WJTM88]

Glad you enjoyed it sorry for getting back so late JT and Lady Cee

[@donnieg844]

Seen this video 3 years ago while I was still in the organization. Been questioning everything and even asking those around me but never received any answers that make sense. Today my wife and I are not in the organization. I'm happy I was able to help her see the organization for what it is, and not what they want her to see. Great video!

[@davidblue7102]

Hello Donnie, how are you doing today; how’s everything going over there; hope it was a wonderful and fun day for u Donnie?

[@Rick_Alden]

Love the black community ❤

[@dr.michellemykelhouse4565]

Jazz-Time it's full of lies and just as many liars!

[@Rick_Alden]

Ozella Mykel House : we're all only human and fallible, Ozella 😢

[@padussia]

Ozella Mykel House I have to agree.

[@WJTM88]

we have been thru "some things" JT and lady Cee

[@NemoUtopian]

Growing up a JW I was always taught that regardless of skin color we were all children of god, but to be honest in the white-bread town I grew up in it did not seem to get tested. Since coming across online groups of ex-JW's I have been delighted to see how many people of color were members, and even better were ex-members.

[@WJTM88]

Glad you enjoyed it sorry for getting back so late JT and Lady Cee

[@ericnegron9885]

Interesting video my spouse is African Caribbean and a Jehovah witness and it’s very hard for me to see theses realities that you are speaking of. Unfortunately it’s a very touchy subject I avoid talking about because it always ends in an argument. Thanks for you informative videos.

[@eddyvideostar]

Well done, Eric. This is the reason that we don't argue, lest, in your words, "because it always ends in an argument." You have the key: *walk away from an argument* especially if you are well versed regarding the psychology of such. Question: Why are you here in the first place making your comment?

[@ericnegron9885]

eddyvideostar to educate myself, so I can inform others of this cult. I want to take the approach that they were speaking of on the video by asking the right questions and maybe raising a doubt. I am a Christian and I would love for my wife to follow the right path. I know that may not happen but it’s worth a try. She invited me to the Kingdom Hall once and I went just to hear what they had to say, and as I sat down a Brother came and greeted me and told me he knew I was not a JW, so I asked him how he knew and told me because of my beard .... huh ? Really? So I looked around and sure enough every man in the facility did not have a beard lol

[@eddyvideostar]

Yes, Eric: I see. In order to educate yourself, you need to talk about this. As you said that you do not like arguments, why create a touchy subject as calling God's organization a cult? Regarding the aspect of the beard: As as the JW's aspire all to adhere to the best of situations as proper cleanliness in appearance and attire, always striving for betterment. Unfortunately, the world has different standards of attire which procures prestige in the young and avant-garde as ripped jeans, ragged accouterments, ugly sneakers, etc. which may be the fashion or fad of the day. The length of beard may be too overwhelming regarding how a male would believe by allowing different and extreme lengths and unusual styles, but may not reflect on this organized religion if this type of behavior is standing out like a neon sign. This may take all types of twists and turns -- sometimes in the wrong directions; therefore, It should behoove one to employ the best effort leading to the best outcome.

[@WJTM88]

@@ericnegron9885 yes jw are not considered a good jw with a beard on , amazing how humans can make laws for God JT and LADY cee

[@JocelynaOwens]

I really like what you two gentleman are speaking on. I was born and raised Catholic. I met my husband thirty three years ago. We have been married for thirty two years. My husband comes from a family of jahova witness. I have always had a strong mind, I have always been a leader and always did my research on everything, From a child I knew I was different. After we got married I would go to the kimdom hall with my husband. Then I got talked in to having a Bible study ,that went well for a while,untel I started asking to many questions, the deal breaker for me was I was told my someone I was studying with I would eventually have to stop associating with my cousin that had a drug problem. And that is where I drew the line, I stopped studying and I go to the hall every now and then. My cousin has been clean for six years. She smoked crack for 28 years. She has always been my best friend, we grew up together.Our moms are sister's. I never gave up on my cousin I just always prayed and prayed.As I still do. So I don't need a congration or a church to have a relationship with God. Jahova always got my back. I do believe in miracles , and Jahova is real ,and always good. I don't down any one's religion .I know that our Father is leading me and guiding me along my path that I call life. Thank you .

[@JocelynaOwens]

,

[@paulstone7655]

Love your video! Especially enjoyed the honesty. I actually believe it's mostly a faulty paradigm - if a whole race of people have been suppressed/subdued for so long, even without the "shackles" many become their own prisoner/slave. They put road blocks in front of themselves instead of breaking through them. "Good things are only reserved for other people, not me". Then the cherry on top; rationalisations are made to justify why it's better to stay as you are. Some examples: "The love of money is the root of evil" "Do no be like the man who built bigger storehouses" "Foresake the desires of the eyes" If you're surrounded by a culture who don't aspire to be what you're wanting to be (and you're unhappy because of it), you have to realise that you no longer can think like them! You have to take yourself away from it (mostly mentally) and disregard anything unproductive. The irony is that the over-used line of JWs - "bad associates spoil useful habits" works in all aspects of life. Surround yourself by ambitious people and you too will be like them, surround yourself with people who laugh at the idea of self improvement (or delusional ideas of "materialism") and you will likely just follow the crowd, black or white/yellow/brown. Change your mind (ideas) - then your life will change with it!

[@paulstone7655]

I would also like to add that people who "end up" with low paying jobs should not be labelled (put into a box). It's a big mistake to assume these individuals are either too stupid/lazy to do anything with their lives (or that they're unhappy/unfulfilled), and that once they get to the kingdom hall, they go on a power trip and go "beyond their station". Part of that is true (the ego stroking and boost in self worth, as you'd expect), but if it hadn't been for the mistaken ideas (especially in the org), these ones would highly likely have progressed pretty well in a career if the mindset was different. I cringe when I see an XJW mocking the so called "janitor elder", it's pretty cruel and assumes this individual is full of themselves with unwarranted pride. It promotes an unfair and judgemental stereotype. You guys haven't done this, but that's something I've seen and it's pretty ugly.

[@southernbawselady7092]

Paul Stone - Amen, so true!! 💯✊✌

[@icebergo6]

Brillant, observant and thinking men who are not motivated by earthly gain but instead to live by Truth. So much respect. Ive watched enough of your vids to ask what came after JW? Talk to me about THAT! You have both earned a lot of credibility.

[@justaroundthecorner2883]

Thank you . I always found the Afro- Americans witnesses charming and gracious and lacking cynicism. They seemed to have a child like trust in all things spiritual and a natural love for the scriptures. Regards.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Agent X20 so true going all the way back to those "negro spirituals" my great grandma and grandma used to sing Love of God bible and spirituality is what gave many hope in some dark days So when anyone comes to their door with THE WORD. they have the greatest respect for it Unfortunately it makes one easy to be mislead The issue of THE BLACK CHURCH. Is an interesting one

[@tamararitch7599]

Great video, I love the title. Keep the information coming!

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Tamara Ritch thx

[@andreabergin3959]

guys stirred up some memories for me.....really good ones. Our family and one other family were the only white families in West Oakland Congregation in the 50's. I was sort of "raised" by wonderful black grandma's and grandpa's (Sister Peaches was my favorite.) Then, as an adult, when I was a witness in NY, I can honestly say that were were truly one people, socially, religiously, etc. I just wanted to give a "shout out" to black JW's who were so important and precious to me. I now live in Idaho, where there are very few black people, and I really miss enjoying their unique culture, including their approach to the Lord. I realize this doesn't really touch on the particular point you two brothers were making, but I I wanted to express myself to you, as a white, now Christian, ex-JW. Thanks.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

andrea bergin jw are good people just git a bad map they are using

[@dawnelizabeth1828]

This is fascinating and interesting stuff, thanks for the summary. I love history and you're great speakers. Take care brothers!

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Dawn Elizabeth thx

[@dawnelizabeth1828]

ExJW Critical Thinker You're welcome!

[@eliakimannointed6196]

'Right On! great stuff Ex Bethelite Marcus has some thoughts on this?...

[@postculthygge]

Thank you for that because I always thought that institutionalised racism was rife in the Watchtower organization, but got criticized every time I pointed it out. Often I see men of ethnic minorities, especially African descent, being used like "servants" in every way. But what aches me is that even if I speak to people of African descent and tell them that they're being targeted, I get slated and reported on. Really sad.

[@Diana-rg7gk]

I love the both of you guys. I have watched your videos Daniel. It's great to see the both of you guys doing videos together.

[@WJTM88]

Glad you enjoyed it sorry for getting back so late JT and Lady Cee

[@myles1954]

Wow! I wish your platform was around back in the 70's when I was a JW. I remember at a Circuit Assembly The Circuit Overseer was critical of the Black brothers(even though he didn't mentioned color) as having Bushy Heads. He saw too many of them in the audience but never said anything about the brothers with the stringy hair below their ears which was numerous in the audience. Didn't dawn on me until I saw this video. Thank You!

[@spikeoramathon]

Every African American involved with the Watchtower should be aware of the "questions from readers" letter from the early 1900s concerning the case of a young boy of color adopted into a white JW community - and his skin color, according to the writer of the letter, was getting lighter, because he was more "in line" with the "Truth." And the Watchtower *supported* this heinous supposition 100%, stating that white skin was a mark of purity (we now know, of course, that dark skin is the default setting for humanity, and light-skinned folks like me are the genetic aberration created by not enough sunlight in northern climes). One of the most heinous lies of the Watchtower is that they are not racist, when, in fact, they have been VERY racist, and repeating the toxic lie that dark skin is "the Mark of Cain." I'm looking for my copy of that letter... perhaps one of your other listeners can find it. And, toasted almond and chocolate? I LOL'd so hard. Uncooked tofu here, sending you love. And respect.

[@spikeoramathon]

I found a pdf of it, here: jwsurvey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/1904-watchtower.png

[@spikeoramathon]

and this jewel. On behalf of my racist ancestors, I apologize: jwsurvey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/1929-golden-age.png

[@spikeoramathon]

ditto for people of color in Scientology. And Mormonism. And a LOT of the Christian sects. It's so sad to see (and not without a bit of a tinge of "white guilt" for the advantages I'd had just because of being born an upper middle class white), but it's not the fault of the folk joining themselves. So often, they don't know, and many of the sects that started with some version of the "Mark of Cain" lie (that people of color - that is, the majority of humanity and our "default" setting - are somehow inherently inferior and "marked" by God with their darker skin) are now careful to deny that heritage, and will keep such distasteful historical racism hidden, even denying it as "apostate-driven lies." As far as their refusal to see it, well that's down to cognitive dissonance. Challenge any of us on a set opinion, show us data which contradicts a dearly-held belief, and we will use every ounce of our intelligence to find a way to make that evidence "not true" in our minds. So of course, no self-respecting African American in the JWs is going to believe they're in a racist organization. They wouldn't be in one, so they aren't; end of story. No conflicting evidence will be believed. Just human nature, sadly.

[@diarradunlap9337]

Spike Robinson Of course, that whole "Mark of Cain" nonsense is easily disproved by the Genesis account. After all, none of Cain's descendants are known to have survived the Flood.

[@thenowchurch6419]

We as a people are very attracted to the JW's and to the S.D.Adventists. I think it has to do with the fact that they both had a lot of images and concepts related to Ancient Kemet or Egypt, in their early presentations. They both had Freemason connections, which goes along with symbology of ancient Egypt. They both also stress that we are in the Last Days and we , blacks, know that we been going through hell on earth and it might as well be close the the end ! Emanuel Swedenborg, Swedish Christian mystic and scientific genius, wrote that blacks are more receptive to the Word of God and put it into action more readily than other groups.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

thenowchurch excellent point. Thanks for sharing

[@patrickmcscere1612]

Some of the information about the Adventist aren't true. I am an Adventist.

[@MelissaBrownapt215]

This topic was one of the reasons I delayed baptism: career mindedness and seeing that sometimes, barely literate brothers took the lead with very capable sisters in the audience. I thought, as a Black man you CAN become SOMEBODY in the org, but not as a woman of any color, as is Yours Truly. Hate to sound ambitious, but I wanted to give podium talks, not dining table demonstrations and when I left, I discovered that I have stage presence, so speaking skill beyond the chair mic. I hope to create opportunity for public speaking again. I do miss it.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Apt215 Melissa Brown you need to stop it !!!!!! You can't be dropping that type of knowledge on folks - they can't handle it. Lol We had a Dr in our hall who had to SUBMIT to males who could barely read as you mentioned at the book study when we had it in the homes and I could not ask her to read the comic book paragraphs Sounds like You and Lady Cee have plenty War stories to tell together Lol JT Thanks for posting

[@yourix2]

You know these are subject matters that witnesses would be very hesitant to talk about. Love the fact that this being discussed!

[@Theoriginalgreenring]

I think these issues are very relevant and true. I’ve seen it happen. While I was a witness I had a “worldly” African American (god that sounds horrible🤦🏽‍♀️) who happened to see my baptism pictures. They were most impressed to see so many other African American Jehovah’s Witnesses nicely dressed up in suits...the appearance of authority alone was enough to draw them to interest. The elder who got rid of me was African American and I trusted him implicitly.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Candice Lambert respect is the draw

[@Flee-the-matrix]

Candice Lambert the elder who got rid of you? Col 2:18 “let no man deprive you of the prize.”You must not have loved Jehovah that much to allow a man to take that away from you

[@adamgomez2043]

Candice Lambert why u get kicked out?

[@Flee-the-matrix]

adam gomez she didn't she just let a man stumble her out if truth. I am disfellowshiped but I refuse to allow a imperfect man take me away from Jehovah. Just look at the the story's in the Bible one example is Moses and the isairlits did they not complain against Jehovah?

[@adamgomez2043]

You know - I'm right she kicked herself out, no one else is to blame, same goes for you and I. Now we walk alone. Also short hair is bad for women.

[@jerryjohanan1940]

I just started watching you guys today your Van tastic I was baptized in 85 I walked away from the organization in 2002 2003 I was disfellowship twice for asking questions of the elders and even of the ceos about things of the organization I was disfellowship because I ask questions and I also seen what you guys are talking about and other congregations that I had friends of that were black they were passed up for ministerial servants of white guys that were less qualified

[@WJTM88]

cant ask too many ????? JT

[@hikingviking859]

Another awesome video. Love the critical thinking skills you promote to your audience🤔

[@WJTM88]

Glad you enjoyed it sorry for getting back so late JT and Lady Cee

[@facetheblacknationchannel]

I have seen the racism at my old congregation in chicago. Lakeview. I have never seen such blatant racism and to be told to deal with it, I couldn't. Now I am starting all over again. I was told by my parents that I couldn't go to college after high school, even being accepted to multiple colleges. I had to wait and now i am playing catch up. My life, I feel it was stolen from me and I hate that feeling. I thought if I did what I was supposed to do according to Jehovah's will, I will be happy. I feel he abandoned me, but I feel stuck. This is all I know. I dont know how to feel, but I know I cannot talk to my parents about this because they will think Im apostate which Im not.

[@bdgrd4u]

Appreciate you touching on the harm the JW religious belief causes. I will touch on the point you discussed in particular here. I was raised in the religion, so, therefore, always taught that the new system was always very near. Fast forward to the age 18 and attaining a job that offered many different retirement opportunities to invest in. I.E. deferred comp ect... Still living at home, I recall discussing these opportunities with my parents. I was told specifically not to worry about these things, because this old system of things would not last long enough for me to retire and not waste my money. Therefore, I did not invest in them. Fast forward 30 plus years later...I am still working and had I invested in these opportunities I would have been able to retire and enjoy a fairly large windfall from these investments. So....harmful? Absolutely! I am witness! And thankfully...not a Jehovahs Witness. Appreciate your content.

[@andrewatson3992]

TY MY BROTHERS and Congratulations on becoming JFW Jehovah's FREE Witnesses!

[@robertsimmons7819]

You guys in the D.C. Area? I live close I would love to meet you guys ✊🏾🖤

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Robert Simmons Hey, email us at [e-mail]

[@Cinnabane]

Interesting video and it’s very true within minorities. In my experience going to both English and Spanish congregations, the Spanish hall always had higher attendance in meetings and number of bible studies. I would also add that I’ve also noticed Latinos tend to be very religious and tend to be more devoted as well.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

banezachan no question about it I was told by so many spanish bethelites that due to the culture of bring Catholic The idea of following a man THE POPE is very normal. Hence following 8 little popes is no problem at all

[@Cinnabane]

ExJW Critical Thinker Exactly! 😊

[@rc-darkangel774]

When you left what did you go to? Did your spiritual ideas change and what did you go too?Did Christmas become okay, do you believe in hellfire now,is it now acceptable to you to join...the world and kill other Christians for worldly government???

[@rodneywarren645]

I just want to personally thank you guys for sharing this information

[@Jexit2020]

What you say is so true! Perceived prominence in the congregation is such a draw for people to commit to, and stay in, the organisation.

[@dawnross2514]

Great video and an interesting topic. One of the few things I loved about the JW's was the teaching that all peoples of the earth were created equal. Where I was it was pretty much wall to wall white English people, so I have no experience of that teaching being upheld. Seems the governing body being on TV has shown up imbalance in all its reality! All the very best to you 😀

[@firstname8348]

Dawn Ross I saw more racism within the organization then I saw outside of it.

[@dawnross2514]

First Name well that's sad but not really a surprise, considering what else was/is going on too. Even in an all white congregation, which was my experience, there were definitely cliques and prejudices.

[@facetheblacknationchannel]

First Name me too. I have experienced it and that's why I left.

[@kesy4072]

​@firstname8348 my current experience

[@miked4686]

This is very true especially here in Charlotte nc!!

[@southernbawselady7092]

mike D - Hey to my NC brother!! 🙋

[@WJTM88]

yes it is JT and Lady Cee I'm from NC

[@WorldTraveller514]

yes! I was discouraged from doing better for myself, even from purchasing a house; THANK GOD, I I and a friend our home owners....working for myself, now am considering attending college. And in all honesty, until something replaces our capitalistic world, one has to take advantage of our better years to better oneself, far from a sin, it's "making sure the grain silos are full of grain"

[@triggawoods6888]

I had a sister in the congregation my mothers age tell me I was going to be the next circuit overseer (circuit 17a so yall know im not bs'ing) due to my skill of public speaking. I've been to bethel and patterson, (I'm 33 btw) and I am super familiar with the organization. I remember territory maps (and on the back they had the "do not call" addresses) when doing field service...and I also remember sharing a congregation with 2 hispanic congregations that were told rules we hadn't been told (they couldn't grow sideburns etc.) in the 1990's. The english ( inner city black) congregation at the time had no such rule. So many contradictions and my subsequent disfellowshipping for being with my now wife, openened my eyes up tremendously. To my knowledge, they dont speak much on CT Russell or JF Rutherford and I just feel privileged to have learned the history when involved and to have found this channel at a dark place in my personal life. JT and Lady Cee have truly been what I now consider a Godsend since my departure from the organization. Please keep up the REAL good work. (And don't take offense to my username lol).

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Trigga Woods hey man thanks. When were you at the BIG HOuse?

[@triggawoods6888]

ExJW Critical Thinker thanks for the reply. I think the first time was before I was 10. A sister drove up there with her daughter my mother myself and my younger sister. After that there were a number of bus trips to Brooklyn Bethel, Patterson, and Walkill if I'm not mistaken. I can't remember which one was my favorite at the time, but whichever one it was, was when the bus would stop at Bear Mountain afterwards for some R&R lol. One of the trips to Bethel though I vividly remember being young (I'm only about 5'7" but I remember being REAL short lol) and looking up to one of the Governing Body members and shaking his hand while he invited me to come to Bethel when I came of age (probably 19). One funny thing I remember was getting a little bit of special treatment since my dad was an elder. Nothing major, but at conventions in philly, we got to sit in the mayors box which was one of the few air conditioned sections at the Vet stadium at the time. Granted my younger sister had asthma as well as myself, but I can't imagine of ALL the people at the convention, ALL of the asthmatics were in the mayors box. The more I look at it now, the goals of getting baptized, then becoming a Ministerial Servant, and then elder seemed like becoming part of a "boys club" within the organization. It had more to do with clout than devotion. I could be wrong, but that's my personal opinion. Anyway, the last trip I believe was with a friend of mine, we both worked the literature counter at the time, and went to Walkill, NY to pick up boxes of literature for our congregation. That was the last time I visited any of the "big houses" and I was probably around 17/18. Anyway I REALLY appreciate your videos, and how informative they are, even a bit nostalgic lol. But the depth and details you guys include solidifies your information with me. Please keep up the REAL good work. Peace and love good brothers and sister!!

[@andracadicecrawford4256]

Love you two together!!

[@ZachtheArvadite]

I recall growing up in a JW home, I had black friends who were Witnesses. My Mom's parents lived in an area that was predominately black in Aurora, Colorado and I can recall a large number of friends in their congregation (Morris Heights) that were African American. There were a lot of good memories with these friends.

[@magalieaugustin5091]

Nice video, watchtower will pay for messed up people's live, people's decision when it comes to harmaguedon.

[@SonofThunder]

Chocolate Thunder?? We're def still brothers then, even apart from the cult😎 Great collaboration friends. Sending love from Florida. Even to the Toasted Almond man.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Son of Thunder hey man you are still the "Master" Good to hear from you. Hope all is well

[@dr.michellemykelhouse4565]

Son of Thunder Jehovah it's a form of government not a cult!

[@heidimohammed7817]

Son of Thunder amen!

[@siyashilla6885]

@@ExJWCriticalThinker I have noticed that a lack of self esterm opens you up to physical abuse, Mental Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Verbal abuse, financial abuse , and Spiritual Abuse. Which is why so many people who lack self esteem are slow to leave abusive relationships.

[@danieljuliomorales7605]

Soooo true! I saw it in the Spanish hall as well. I went to both English & Spanish kh's. it can be seen in the white low SES community as well. If you lived in the ghetto the poorer white sections of town where always butt up right against the minority communities. We all were in the same boat. You are absolutely right, JT the African American community is and was hit worse. I remember being invited (diner too) and going to a mostly African American (Southern based) Christian Church. There was more ❤️ in one meeting there than ALL the time I spent in any KH combined!-period! Yup, Alexandria. In Prince George's County where my tio (uncle) lives, his neighborhood is all African American with all professionals living there. He was brought homemade cakes & pies from his neighbors after he moved in. This is how Miami is for the Spanish. This is changing rapidly across America, as I worked with MD's who where a mix (equal) of African Americans, Indian, Caucasian, Asian, men & women, and half the medical students now are female. The Watchtower, I believe cannot handle educated people of any ethnicity, because they are so messed up & their flagrant misuse of scripture. They even had to make a fake Bible to fool their followers! Information & learned thinking are the watchtowers worst enemy including themselves. Interesting how there are no Asian, Indian, Hispanic, etc. in the GB. God must like Caucasian folk the most because they make-up the most , if not ALL of the 144,00 going to heaven, including a free ticket from Armageddon!!! According to the Watchtower! "When emotion is up, logic is down!" Daniel (aka-toasted almond!)🤣😂 God Bless you both JT (aka-chocolate thunder!) Lady Cee! my brothers & sisters!

[@Something_Found-]

Excellent video.

[@WJTM88]

Sorry for taking so long to get back but glad you enjoyed it JT and Lady Cee

[@simonrgalesg]

This is right on point. God lays all things bare. The real truth is coming out as we head towards jesus coming to find who really is the faithful and discreet slave. Peace and love brother

[@vancepatterson5140]

Great video 👍👍👍👍

[@buffalobillswin187]

I grew up in a predominantly white area. While I was there, I never thought twice about it. Now, looking back, there was a high percentage of black people there. Almost all of my friends were black. I have been wanting to ask this question. And now this video has answered my questions, sparing me the embarrassment of asking. I'm truly grateful I was raised the way I was. Now, at 40 years old, I hardly notice color. So that's a good thing. I absolutely love that this channel is so informative. Celebrate the Truth!

[@wendyrosson6729]

The whites are following the leader too. Not questioning anything.

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

Wendy Rosson point well taken - much I think has to do with a person's status Being told you will get rich folks homes and property if you just hang in there by God is powerful stuff

[@aleset1]

Thank you sir for explaining things in a critical thinking way because it has opened a channel in my heart that may set it free after 40 years.

[@guillermovilla9517]

Great stuff! I agree with what you said and I told that to my wife, but not because it’s a black thing. I always felt that brothers, regardless of color, were in it for the power and position. Because most elders have Watchtower approved jobs, like window cleaner, they are “nobodies” in their regular life and even at home they may not have the influence they would like, so this position REQUIRES the friends to respect and fear them. If they don’t respect and obey them, say hello to the little room in the back. I’m of Puerto Rican decent and I did my genealogy and it turns out I have 10% African (less than I thought I would have). I don’t think that number is high enough for me to voice an opinion about black Jehovah’s Witnesses, so I’ll speak In generalities.😂

[@ExJWCriticalThinker]

GuillermoVilla you knocked it of the park Thanks

[@JJ-bw8co]

When you really examine the J.W. organization. With its general cultural thinking. Mode of operation. And the way it often depicts things in its publications and media. It becomes very apparent the whole structure is best suited for middle class men of European descent. But for black men who are really on the front line. And are living in a western country. It fits least of all. He may not even be able to reach out for the positions you mentioned. If he is single. And really on the front lines.

[@mrrodman210]

So, so true!!!!

[@tmalone2530]

This video right here is GOLD! Solid GOLID!

[@Libragirl1979]

This makes sooooo much sense to me! I was born into this religion. Never baptized but around age 17 I started to feel like I agreed with everything but it was just too difficult a life to live. That made me feel like I wasn’t as strong as some of the other young people. Life went on for me, I had my family, got my education and live a fairly decent life. Now at age 40 I realize that there was always so many questions that no one could ever answer. No matter how many times I asked, I started to understand that there’s nothing wrong with me for wanting nice things and going after them. My mom is a die hard JW. She literally says “I’ll die without it”, anyone who knows someone who’s like that knows there’s no changing their minds. I don’t think that there’s any harm being done per se but I do know that most JWs have a “follower” mentality.

[@QueenSamiyah]

Excellent topic!!!